Internet and Computing Core Certification Guide · Hand-held or Mobile Computers : Any computing device that fit within the palm of your hand example: Cellular phones: More sophisticated

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COMP-A Summary

Internet and Computing Core Certification Guide

Digital Literacy I COMP-A

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Lesson 1: Computers All Around Us

Objective: Compare and contrast different types of computers, including, personal

computers, laptops and PDAs.

Desktop Computers

Desktop computers are also called personal computers and sit on, or beside, or under a desk.

These process data quickly and are typically used in small businesses and school. Generally two

types of personal computer: PC and MAC.

Notebooks or Laptop Computers

A notebook or laptop computers can be similar to desktop models in term of speed, performance

and usage. Some of advantages:

Portability.

Power consumption considered “greener” alternative.

Can purchase accessories to enhance enjoyment and experience.

Netbook

A netbook is similar to a notebook. It designed to handle wireless communications or access to

Internet only.

Tablets

These computers look similar to a notebook but the screen can swivel or fold over and uses touch

screen capability for data entry

Hand-held or Mobile Computers :

Any computing device that fit within the palm of your hand example:

Cellular phones:

More sophisticated and can include:

playing and listening to music

taking pictures or video

text messaging

paging

e-mail

accessing the Internet

Apple


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global navigation systems (GPS)

Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs):

Have specific software helps make appointments, keep contact lists, or write notes.

Music Players:

May also called an MP3 player or digital audio player. Provide audio and

visual capabilities or access to Internet.

Game systems:

Embedded computing chip that enables individual to play interactive games with video

technology.

Electronic book reader:

Special computing device designed with software program to download and view electronic

copy of published work.

Calculators:

Use same type of chips in computers to perform same calculations. Computer is really very

large and advanced calculator that performs tasks based on binary computations of 1 or 0.

Other types of computers:

Computers used in daily activities, such as:

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).

Global Positioning Satellite (GPS).

Robotics.

Medical Equipment.

PDAs

MP3


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Lesson 2: Working with Computer Elements

Objective: Describe the main functional blocks of a computer system and how

they work in sequence to process information.

System Unit

Often most important and expensive part and it are including motherboard, CPU, Types of

memories and power supply).

Microprocessor chip (CPU)

It also called CPU (Central Processing Unit), which is consider as the brain of the computer and

it’s located on the motherboard. The speed of the processing is measured in Megahertz (MHz).

Memory

Is a holding area for data (store) and instruction while processing. It is located in the

motherboard. The capacity of the Memory is measured in bytes. Computers developed using a

numbering system of 1s and 0s Known as binary system.

Bit 1 byte 1Kilobyte 1Megabyte 1 Gigabyte 1 Terabyte 1 Petabyte

0 or 1 8 bits 1,024 Bytes 1,024

Kilobyte

1,024

Megabyte

1,024

Gigabyte

1,024

Terabyte

Read Only Memory (ROM) BIOS

Responsible for: Starting computer, Checking RAM, Loading operating system. Occurs only

when computer first turned on or each time you restart (reboot) computer.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Temporarily stores software program currently using and data created in program; may be

referred to as system RAM. RAM is volatile.


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Lesson 3: Working with Storage Systems



Working with Hard Disk Drives (HDD)

Primary storage area for both data and programs.

Data transfer rate (throughput) of hard drive is function of hard drive rotation speed and

number of heads per surface.

Optical Writers

Types of drives include:

CD-ROM: (Compact Disc Read Only Memory) or DVD-ROM drive.

CD-R/ DVD-R: can write once only to blank disc, but disc can be read multiple times.

CD-RW/ DVD-RW: can read and write multiple times onto same disc.

DVD-RAM: similar to DVD-RW but can only be used on devices that support this

format usually in the form of cartridges.

Disk HDD CD DVD Tape Zip

Capacity 1000MB to

1GB

650M

B

4.7GB to

17+GB

250MB to over

80GB

100MB and

750MB

The table shows the capacity of each disk


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Lesson 4: Using Input/output Devices



What are Input / Output Devices?

Input/ Output devices enables communication between user and computer. There are three

types:

Input devices:

Anything used to enter data into computer. Examples: (Scanners, Bar Code Reader, Game

Controllers or Joysticks, Webcam, Remote Control, Security Devices, Keyboard, Move

mouse, Trackball and Touchpad).

Output devices:

Anything used to display data on or from computer. Examples: (Projector, Photo Printer and

Plotters, Monitor).

Input & output devices:

Anything used to enter and display information at the same time. Examples: (Touch Screens

and Digital Cameras with a screen).

Specialized Devices:

Numerous devices available for people with physical challenges to improve

ability to use computers.

Device driver:

Mini-program tells operating system what kind of device it is, what make or brand it is, and

its purpose.

Plug-and-play:

Automatically identifies new device connected so it looks for and installs device

automatically.

Specialized Device


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Lesson 5: Basic Troubleshooting Techniques

Objective: Understand the main computer maintenance processes with

troubleshooting technique.

How can you increase overall performance?

Change microprocessor chip.

Increase amount of RAM memory chips for system.

Change video card and amount of RAM for video card.

There are more ways to increase your computer performance.

Taking Care of the Computer

Refrain from eating or drinking around keyboard.

Keep cables clear of walkways.

Avoid connecting too many electrical devices.

Use surge suppressor or UPS to protect from power surges, brownouts, or general

fluctuations.

File server should be in locked room with special entry access.

Turn computer off before you move it.

Performing Basic Troubleshooting

There are many points that can Increase computer performance such as:

1. Collecting Information: Write information down for reference.

2. Analysing the Information: Analyze information for any patterns or common

themes.

3. Attempting Basic Solutions: Try simple troubleshooting.

4. Finding Help: Seek help and advice from technical support specialist.

5. Communicating the Problem Accurately: Be accurate and concise when

communicating problem.

6. Analyzing and Selecting the Proper Action: Provide as much detail so specialist

can provide list of options.

7. Implementing the Solution: Follow solution provided to resolve problem

8. Confirming the Problem is Fixed: Try to duplicate problem to see if error occurs

again


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9. Documenting and Communicating the Incident: Document incident to use for

future reference and share document with others

10. Avoiding Similar Problems in the Future: Documenting issue can help prevent

similar problems in future

Lesson 6: Buying a Computer& Looking at Software

Objective: Identify and explain the different types of software: operating systems,

application software and programming software.

Determining the Purpose:

How will this computer be used and by whom?

Size and type of hard drive

Desktop or notebook or netbook?

Identifying Other Requirements:

Is it for school or organization?

Selecting the Operating Platform

Select the operating system and the applications that are needed.

Looking at Support Options:

Looking at Support Options:

Warranty: it is a legal assurance that a computer will work as described in the product

documentation.

Support agreements: which can help extend the life of your computer for a cost that

may be less than paying for each repair as need arises.

Extended warranties: different from support agreement as these do not extend the life

of the computer.

Useful life of new computer: is considered to be a minimum of 2 to 3 years depending

on how you use it and what you use it for.


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Lesson 7: Looking at Software



What is a Software Program?

Refers to a set of instructions or rules that operate the computer and the other connected devices.

There are two types of software (SW) programs:

1. Operating Systems (OS)

2. Applications Software (AS)

There are many types of application software such as:

1. Word Processing: Can create, edit, and save documents, change appearance or position

of text or pictures, review changes made by others, or remove items no longer needed.

E.g. MS word, word perfect.

2. Spreadsheets: Perform mathematical calculations, produce “what-if” analyses, and

display graphs, charts, and diagrams. E.g., Excel, Louts 1-2-3, Quattro Pro. File called

workbook that can have any number of worksheets or reports.

3. Presentations: Create slides with any type of content for presentations E.g., power

points, coral presentation.

4. Database Management: Organized collection of related information with following

structure, E.g., Access, Paradox.

5. Graphics: Can obtain graphics from different sources, create your own, or customize

picture files .E.g., CorelDraw, Illustrator, Visio, Photoshop, FreeHand, and

Dreamweaver.

6. Multimedia: Add elements such as video, music, or animation E.g., Flash, Shockwave,

Discreet, and Director.

(SW)

programs

OS AS


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7. Utility Tools

Antivirus Protection Protects system from viruses that may corrupt files

Disk Compression Frees space to store more files in most accessible area

Disk Cleanup Reduces number of temporary files

Backup Protection Schedule backups or copies of specific data should computer fail

8. Electronic Mail: Referred to as e-mail E.g., Outlook Express, Netscape Mail, Outlook,

Eudora.

9. Web Browsers: Enables you to view Web sites placed online by different companies,

organizations, or individuals E.g., Internet Explorer, Netscape, and Opera.

10. Integrated Suites: Group of programs packaged together for purchase. E.g., Microsoft

Office, WordPerfect Office, Lotus smartSuit, Microsoft Works.

Obtaining Software

Software as a Service (SaaS) or Application Service Provider (ASP) licensing enables you to

access and use a software program from your system via a network, the organization intranet, or

the internet.

Upgrading vs. Updating:

Upgrade refers to replace of a program with newer version of the same program, but update

refers to Renew for a program. Adding or renew some features in that program.


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Lesson8: Operating Systems



Looking at Operating Systems

Operating Systems Controls interaction and communication with user, Manage input devices,

output devices, storage devices and Manages files stored on computer and recognizes file types.

DOS was text-based software and required single line commands to perform functions

GUI (Graphical User Interface) enables you to use pointing device to point and select

functions.

Windows7 Vista Mac Unix Linux

Security Less Less Less More More

GUI With GUI With

GUI

With

GUI

No GUI use Command

line

GUI use Command

line

Uses Easy to

use

Easy to

use

Easy to

use

Difficult to use because

use command line

Difficult to use because

use command line

Save files using names up to 256 characters long

If PC, cannot use (\? : < > |)

If Mac, ( :) cannot be used

Problems of OS

Power failures

Shutting down computer incorrectly

Installing too much software or installing it incorrectly

Viruses

Conflict between software and the operating system

Deleting system files


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Lesson 9: Looking at the Windows Desktop

Objective: Demonstrate logging on and off a computer.

Exiting the Computer Properly

To display Task Manager

Press then click Start Task Manager.

Task Manager: Use to switch programs, start program, check which programs running and

status, or safely close program if problems occurring.

Looking at a Typical Window

Switch user Switches to another user account without logging out of the current

account.

Log off Closes all open items, logs out of the current user account, and returns to

the log on screen.

Restart Closes all open items and restarts the computer; also called a reboot or

warm boot.

Sleep Puts computer in state where it consumes less power without losing your

place on the screen; computer does not shut down. If using desktop

computer, Sleep command appears as Standby.

Hibernate Available only on notebooks, saves what is on desktop and then shuts down

the computer completely. When you restart and log on, desktop returns to

where you left it.


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Notification Area displays time with access to start up programs.

To activate Run: Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Run

To activate Help: Select Help and Support from Start or Press

Lesson10: Looking at Files and Folders

Objective: Demonstrate searching for files and folders. Understand the

hierarchical structure of drives, files and folders. Understand the meaning and

types of file extensions.

Types of files

Application File: Includes very detailed instructions for microprocessor on what tasks to

perform and Stored in program folder which resides in Program Files folder.

Data File: Contains information entered and saved in application.

System File:Contains detailed instructions for microprocessor on what tasks to perform,

except they are part of operating system.

Navigation

Pane

Displays Favorites, Libraries, and Computer or Network areas.

(Expand) Displays more folders or items at this level; may see several buttons

depending how structure set.

(Collapse) Hide items at this level; may see several buttons based on structure set up.

Split Bar Drag bar to show more or less of either pane.

Contents Pane Shows contents of drive or folder selected in Folders pane.


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Browse folders: Specifies whether each folder opens in same window, or in different window.

Changing the View: On Command bar, click

Extra Large Icons

• Shows as very large icons

• File and folder names display below icon

Large Icons

• Displays files and folders as large icons

• Helpful to preview picture files

Medium Icons

• Displays files and folders with names below icons

• Helpful for overview of folders or files in location

Recycle Bin: Temporary storage area for files and folders you delete from local hard disk.


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Sample of Review Questions

1. What is the biggest advantage of using a notebook?

a. Cost

b. Speed

c. Portability

d. Size

2. Match each term of bytes with its suitable answer:

1024 Megabytes Choose...

1024 kilobytes Choose...

1024 bytes Choose...

1024 Gigabytes Choose...

3. Which type of the following DVD drives allows you to write in a blank DVD?

(Choose 2 Answers)Select one or more:

a. DVD-ROM

b. DVD-RAM

c. DVD-R

d. DVD-RW

e. Both DVD-RAM & DVD-ROM

4. Where can you find help or advice for fixing a problem on your computer?

a. IT department

b. Online sources, such as the Internet

c. Offline sources, such as the library

d. Any of the above

e. a or b

5. What factors should you consider when purchasing a computer for someone who

works with video files?

a. Large Hard Drive

b. Digital Camera


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c. Microprocessor Speed

d. Amount of RAM

6. All of the following are examples of Graphics programs except:

Select one:

a. Photoshop

b. Dreamweaver

c. CorelDraw

d. Paradox

7. To select an item on the desktop, which mouse option would you use?

Select one:

a. Double-click

b. Either A or B

c. Right-click

d. Click

8. The most common way to start an application program is to use the Start button on

the desktop.

a. True b. False

9. How can you activate the Help feature?

a. Select Help and Support from the Start menu

b. Click a Help icon or button if it is displayed on the screen

c. Press

d. Any of the above

10. There is no difference between copying and moving files or folders.

a.True b.False

11. How can corruption of a file occur?

a. Virus

b. Hardware Failure

c. Power Surges

d. Software Issues

e. Any of the above

f. b or c


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12. How can you access the Control Panel?

a. From the Start menu

b. From a file management tool

c. By pressing +

d. Any of the above

e. Only a or b

13. The Recycle Bin is a temporary storage area for files and folders that have been

deleted from the hard drive.

a.True b.False

14. An operating system is a collection of programs designed to control the computer’s

interaction and communication with the user.

a. True b.False


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Glossary

Word Definition Arabic Translation

Accessory Program

A program provided with windows vista

such as windows calculator ,word Pad

اكسسوارات

Application Program Is usually a collection of programs and data

file that works together

برامج تطبيقية

ASP Application service provider تطبيق حدمة متو فرة

ASP Application Service Provider .SaaS مزود خدمة التطبيقات

Attempt try محاولة

backup Reserve Version النسخ االحتياطي

BIOS( Basic Input/ Output System ) Small program is permanently stored in the

computer’s ROM

نظام اإلدخال واإلخراج االساسي

Browse View available network resources تصفح

Buffer a temporary memory for data للبيانات مؤقتة ذاكرة

CD Compact Disc القرص المضغوط

Cellular Telephone Mobile or handheld devices تلفون متنقل

Chip slap رقاقة أو شريحة

Collapse Make it smaller the icon تقليص

Communication More connections االتصاال و التواصل

CPU ( Central Processing Unit) وحدة المعالجة المركزية

DAT Digital Audio Tape شريط صوتي رقمي

Data Transfer Rate (DTR) speed at which data can be transmitted

between devices

نقل البيانات معدل

Digital Representations of data that can be

retrieved

رقمي

Disk drives - محركات األقراص

DVD digital versatile disc متعدد االستخدامات الرقمي القرص

Expand Make it bigger the icon توسيع

Gadgets Mini program that display on the windows

desktop.calander ,clock

برامج صغيرة

GPS (Global Position Systems) نظم المالحة العالمية

Graphics

Illustration can be inserted into worksheet

,picture ,clip art

الرسوماات

GUI Graphic User interface المستخدم التفاعليةواجهة

Hard disk drives - األقراص الصلبة

Media player (MP3 player) Portable media devices that are used to store

music files, images, or video.

أجهزة الوسائط المحمولة التي تستخدم في

تخزين ملفات الموسيقى أو الصور أو الفيديو

Operating System A software program that controls all hard

ware and application

نظاام تشغيلي

Operating System A software program that controls all hard

ware and application

نظام تشغيل

Optical drives - الضوئية محركات األقراص

Paging Browsing اإللكتروني(تصفح) االنترنت أو الكتاب

PC (Personal Computers) الكمبيوتر الشخصي

PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) شخصيال مساعد الرقميال


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Portability Easy to carry التنقل

RAM (Random access Memory) ذاكرة الوصول العشوائي

Reboot Restart إعادة تشغيل

Recycle Bin A temporary storage area for deleted files سلة المهمالت

Remote Assistance Feature enable you to request or provide

help

المساعدة عن بعد

Retrieval recover استرجاع

ROM (Read Only Memory) ذاكرة القراءة فقط

Slot gap, hole فتحة أو منفذ

Specialized Devices Devices designed for physically challenged

user

المتخصصة األجهزة

Task Notification Area An area at the end of the taskbar that display

…virus ,network connections, date and time

شريط التوضيحي

Temporarily Saved for small period of time مؤقتا

Touch Pad The small rectangular area on a notebook لوحة اللمس

Trouble Shouting Technique how the solve the problem تصحيح االخطاء

Volatile inconstant متطاير و متقلب

Documents

Internet and Computing Core Certification Guide · Hand-held or Mobile Computers : Any computing device that fit within the palm of your hand example: Cellular phones: More sophisticated